Quarterly Catch-Up
Written by Shelly West
This second quarter in Bradenton and across Manatee County brought a steady mix of changes, with familiar places evolving alongside new chapters. A long-standing landmark closed its doors, while another beloved local spot was revived and reopened, drawing renewed community attention. Downtown and the waterfront continued to see investment and public space improvements, reflecting a region that’s growing while still holding tightly to its history and character.
Here’s a look back at some of the key highlights and updates shaping growth across the Bradenton area.
Pelot’s Rexall Pharmacy Closes
A downtown landmark, Pelot’s Rexall Pharmacy, closed in March after more than 130 years in operation. Family-owned since the late 1800s and located in the Davis Building since 1934, the pharmacy was one of Bradenton’s oldest businesses.
Owner Robert Pelot is stepping away to focus on family. Prescriptions have been transferred to Walgreens, and the building is listed for sale, marking another shift in the evolving downtown corridor.
Bishop Museum Receives Manatee Rehab Grant
On April 30, 2026, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature received a $450,000 grant from the Bishop-Parker Foundation to support its manatee rehabilitation program.
The funding will help sustain the museum’s Stage 2 care facility, which treats sick and injured manatees before release. Officials said the support is especially critical following the loss of a major funding source and the recent intake of two juvenile manatees from ZooTampa, helping offset the high costs of feeding and veterinary care.
Free Admission Weekends Announced at The Bishop
Manatee County residents will receive free admission on select weekends at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature through early 2027, funded by a grant from the Bradenton Rotary Club.
The program includes scheduled free weekends in June, September, December, and January, offering access to the museum’s exhibits, planetarium, and manatee rehabilitation habitat. The initiative aims to expand local access to cultural and educational resources, including the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat and the museum’s science and natural history exhibits.
Dates include June 13-14, Sept. 5-6, Dec. 5-6, and Jan. 9-10.
City News:
Funding Received
Bradenton has secured $4 million in federal Community Project Funding for local infrastructure.
Of that, $3 million will support stormwater improvements tied to the LECOM Park area expansion, including new fields, parking, and a future community resource center. Another $1 million is allocated for safety upgrades along State Road 64.
The funding, supported by U.S. Representative Vern Buchanan, adds to more than $150 million in recent state and federal investment across Bradenton.
Sculpture Installation
The Singing River sculpture by Reinaldo Correa has been installed along the Bradenton Riverwalk, forming a colorful canopy inspired by the Manatee River.
Wind-activated elements produce soft tones, and a new pedestrian path beneath the piece will soon allow visitors to experience it from below. Final landscaping and site work are expected in the coming weeks.
Selected through a 2023 public art process, the project is funded by the Bradenton Community Redevelopment Agency, as part of an ongoing effort to activate the waterfront with interactive art, shaded walkways, and improved connectivity between downtown and the Manatee River. The project reflects continued investment in making the Riverwalk a central civic and cultural corridor.
Lewis Park Is Transforming
The first plantings are underway for a future butterfly garden at Lewis Park, 3120 1st Ave. W., Bradenton, transforming open space into a native habitat for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
Led by city officials and volunteers, with guidance from the University of Florida IFAS Extension, the project aims to enhance green space and provide educational opportunities. More updates and a formal dedication are expected as the garden grows.
Community Garden Celebrates Grand Opening
Celebrations were held on May 30 for the grand opening of the Patricia & Dr. Carroll Geraldson Community Garden located at 1401 99th St. N.W., Bradenton.
The new garden was designed to support access to fresh food, community connection, and hands-on learning. The free, family-friendly event featured a ribbon-cutting with Manatee County Commissioners Tal Siddique and Amanda Ballard, along with tours, mural viewing, kids’ activities, and seed giveaways in partnership with Palma Sola Botanical Garden and Hope Seeds.
The opening marked the launch of a new community space focused on education, sustainability, and local engagement.
Mixon Farms Market Continues Monthly Series
The former Mixon Fruit Farms site at 525 27th St. E., Bradenton, continues its revival under Manatee County ownership with a recurring monthly farmers market launched this spring.
Held on the third Sunday of each month through May, the market features local vendors, fresh produce, live music, and family-friendly agricultural programming, including themed activities such as “Ag Adventure” exhibits and hands-on farm experiences. The effort is part of a broader county initiative to preserve the historic property while reestablishing it as a community gathering space.
The market has quickly become a draw for residents, blending the site’s agricultural legacy with its new role as a public destination for local food and small business engagement.
Next season will resume in November.
Hob Nob Drive-In Reopens
After nearly two years, the beloved The Original Hob Nob Drive-In reopened on April 21, bringing back one of the most nostalgic roadside stops.
A local favorite for generations, Hob Nob is a landmark drive-in along U.S. 301 in Sarasota. The classic drive-in returns with its retro charm intact, serving up the same burgers, fries, and milkshakes that made it a community staple, now under new ownership, committed to preserving its legacy.
Palmetto Marriott Adds New Retail & Dining District
The Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa is expanding its footprint with a new adjacent retail and dining development along US-41, adding about 8,200 square feet of commercial space. The project will introduce a mix of tenants, including Burger Monger, Foxtail Coffee, Noire Nail Bar, and White Diamond Shipping, to serve both resort guests and local traffic. The resort also continues to offer multiple on-site dining options, including The Social, as well as rooftop and poolside venues, further positioning the property as a mixed hospitality-and-lifestyle destination. Completion of the initial phase is expected in late 2026 to early 2027.